Until recently, I thought of smoothies as nothing more than a beverage. A delicious, creamy beverage, of course, but they were not a meal.

However, once we bought a decent blender and I grew tired of my usual breakfasts, I began to revisit the smoothie idea.

Below are some healthy, whole foods-based ways I bulk up the nutrition and improve the staying power of my smoothies.

1. Greek yogurt

When I’m not feeling protein powder, I often turn to Greek yogurt for protein and satiety. As a bonus, it also makes the smoothie creamy and tangy.

2. Avocado

It may sound strange, but avocado adds some serious staying power to your smoothie. It’s full of fiber and healthy fat—and it cranks up the creamy factor like nothing else. (Related: Strawberry, Avocado & Mint Smoothie)

3. Coconut Water

If you use your smoothies to refuel after a tough workout, might I suggest adding coconut water? Coconut water is full of natural electrolytes, and while it won’t add fat or calories, it will help your muscles recover. (Related: Banana, Mango & Coconut Water Smoothie)

4. Turmeric

Apart from turning things yellow, turmeric boasts numerous health benefits: it’s anti-inflammatory, it can help prevent or inhibit the growth of cancer, and it can help heal the gut. It won’t add bulk to your smoothie, but it will add healing power.

5. Ambronite

I’ve talked about Ambronite in the past, but I recently received a sample of the Ambronite v4, which is upgraded with more bilberries, sea-buckthorn berries, and black currants.

Ambronite is a “drinkable supermeal,” and while I sip it mixed (as the label suggests) with water or juice, it’s even better blended with fruit for the ultimate nutrient-dense smoothie. Learn more about Ambronite’s all natural ingredients here.

Strawberry-Banana Ambronite Smoothie

serves 1

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup frozen strawberries
• 1 frozen banana
• 1/2 package of Ambronite
• 1 cup milk of choice
• splash of orange juice
• handful of spinach
• small handful ice cubes
• toppings of choice (I used a strawberry, shredded coconut + chia seeds but the sky’s the limit)

Directions

• Place all ingredients into a high-speed blender; blend on medium or high until smooth. Pour into a glass or bowl and enjoy!

Ambronite is a gray/brown-ish color, so this smoothie is not the prettiest. I promise that it tastes delicious, though. Feel free to use blueberries, peaches, or another fruit to change things up. And I’m not kidding about this smoothie’s staying power—it really will keep you full!

• Do you often drink smoothies?
• What are your favorite smoothie ingredients?
• Have you ever tried Ambronite?

**I received free samples of Ambronite in exchange for a review. I was not compensated for this blog post, and as always, all opinions are my own**